Immigration Museum

“Immigration Museum – A Journey Through Stories and Heritage I visited the Immigration Museum in Melbourne with a friend, and it proved to be a deeply rewarding experience. As someone who loves museums, I found this visit exceptional from start to finish. From the moment we entered the historic Old Customs House building on Flinders Street, its architecture alone speaks to Melbourne’s past; there was a sense of stepping into both history and present‑day relevance. Inside, the exhibition spaces are thoughtfully arranged to tell multiple stories: why people migrate, how they arrive, the challenges they face, and the contributions they make. Every gallery was well‑designed, with a blend of personal testimonies, historical objects, interactive displays, and immersive narrative. One moment that stood out: recognizing how migration is not just about physical journeys, but also about identity, belonging and change, things we all can relate to. The museum’s thoughtful attention to experience is evident. They provide accessible entrances and supports for sensory‑sensitive visitors, showing the commitment to inclusion. The multiple levels of the building allow both a broad perspective of immigration history and deeper dives into specific cultural stories. What I valued most about the visit was how it made me reflect not only on the past of Victoria and Australia, but also on my own sense of place and identity. Sharing the tour with a friend enhanced the experience, as we discussed what resonated, what surprised us, and what stays with us. In short: this was more than a museum visit, it was an invitation to appreciate our collective journeys, our communities, and the stories that shape us. Visiting the Immigration Museum reminded me that learning about others’ stories inevitably enriches how we understand our own.”

“My son and I really enjoyed visiting the Immigration Museum and taking part in a guided tour. We learned many interesting facts about the building itself and the ground on which it stands. The overall exhibition was very insightful and engaging. As a foreigner who does not live in Australia, I had hoped to learn more about Indigenous Australians as well. This gap was partly bridged through the history of the building and its changing role over time. I was particularly impressed by the exhibition on identity, which is thought-provoking and encourages personal reflection. Note to the museum: It was a bit hard to actually find the guided tour on the website. I think if the option appeared on the ticket booking site maybe more people would consider taking it. I can highly recommend doing so!”

“Am studying Migration Law so it was academic to visit. Staff were friendly. Free entry for me as a student and the storage was ample as was flying to airport. Really enjoyed the first part of the museum in which there were videos of the history and people who migrated to Australia for reasons of war, economic, climate etc. There was an interactive interview video which was great and had a chat with a couple of travelling lawyers from the states. Great experience. Give it a visit if you feel migration has made this and many other nations!”

“The staff are super friendly and helpful. The museum has a mixture of videos, displays, text, and interactive exhibits so it can appeal to different ages and preferences. Also has an exhibition space with interactive artworks which currently includes a replica video rental store. The museum has elevators and ramps for accessibility.”